Bastl Instruments: Modular synthesis
The most common problem in starting with modular synthesis is trying to figure out which casing to get. This workshop will help you to get familiar with the world of MS without needing to do much preliminary research and provide you with a cheap and reliable powered case, which really makes it easier to begin. In this workshop we will use a standard HP84 (426.72mm) sized wooden casing, which allows you to freely add modules of your own choice in the future.
Furthermore, the workshop will provide you with a basic modular system, consisting of a semi-modular synth and three standard modules, such as oscillator, sequencer and filter. Participants will assemble a semi-modular synthesizer Kastle and 3 modules from the Bastl Instruments collection (Tromso, Cinnamon and Popcorn), arrange them into the DIY wooden case and, with the help from the experienced Bastl team, connect the entire system to a power supply. If you already have one of the semi-modular synths (like Make Noise 0-Coast, Volca Modular, Arturia MiniBrute 2, softPOP, bitRanger,…), bring it with you. In this case you don’t really need the Kastle.
The first day of the workshop will be focused on assembling and soldering the kits, followed by arranging the modules into the casing and connecting them with the power supply. The last day will be dedicated to familiarisation with the newly created modular machine.
The workshop will be followed by a lecture from Václav Peloušek in the beginning of April on the basics of modular synthesis, sound, electricity and signals.
Modules:
- Tromso – VCO/Comparator/Sample & Hold
- Cinnamon – State Variable Filter
- Popcorn – 8 Step Sequencer
- Kastle – mini modular synth
How to apply:
Please note that modular synthesis is not cheap (but it is highly addictive!). The cost of the workshop materials is still way lower than ordering the items on the market individually. FREE PARTICIPATION: Don’t worry if you can’t afford to cover for the materials – you are still warmly invited to attend and actively participate in the workshop. Help us build a few modular systems, which will always be available to you and the community to use, play and even rent at the “synth library” at osmo/za.You can apply until February 24 by sending an email to delavnice@projekt-atol.si. Please indicate which package or module you want to build (additional payment information will be forwarded by email). The fee covers expenses for materials. The workshop product remains in your possession. The workshop will be held in English.
Kits:
- Starting package: Kastle + Tromso, Cinnamon and Popcorn + wooden casing + power supply+ bus board + adapter + rails + threads + set of cables = 390 €
- Full modular: Tromso, Cinnamon and Popcorn + housing + power supply + bus boards + adapter + rails + threads + set of cables = 330 €
- Modular only: if you already have your modular system, you can upgrade it with different modules from the Bastl collection (price list)
- (cenik)
- Just Eurorack: casing + power supply + bus board + adapter + rails + threads = 75 €
Bastl Instruments
Bastl Instruments is a dynamic and community-driven company focused on producing hand-made electronic musical instruments. The products we make mainly spring from our needs we have as musicians and range from tabletop instruments and utilities to modules for eurorack modular systems. We are based in Brno, Czech Republic where they also run a small shop called noise.kitchen. It all started in 2011 as Standuino and transformed into Bastl in 2013. Bastl Instruments.